My over-riding advice would be don’t try and do everything in one trip. The Costa del Sol has been one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations for decades and has attractions - from cathedrals to clubs, museums to marinas, natural parks to nudist beaches, aquaparks to safari parks, golf courses to polo pitches - to suit practically everyone and every budget. If you try and do it all, it won’t feel like a holiday at all.

If you’re here for a week, for example, I’d do an attraction/activity/sight-seeing on one day, and spend the following day chilling out on the beach or by the pool. After all, the 325 days of sunshine and blue skies are why millions come here each year.

Despite being a cosmopolitan destination, Andalusians are rightly proud of their traditions and many places still close for siesta between 2-5pm, especially in the hot summer months. In addition, most of the more high-brow, cultural attractions will be closed on Sundays.

The Costa del Sol is 110 miles long and some of the best beaches, towns and attractions are spread out so I’d highly recommend hiring a car to get the most out of what there is on offer. Be warned though Spanish Police are now very strict on drink driving and there are frequent road blocks where they carry out spot checks.

How I’ve picked my things to do:

While Simon Cowell et al might like to sunbathe on over-sized day beds in the hushed luxury of an exclusive beach club, those with young teenagers in tow would probably opt for a day at a fast and furious water park. Thankfully, the scope of things to do is enormous. But that scope means you need to know where to head.

I’ve selected a range of the best attractions and beaches in each area of the Costa del Sol that showcase that variety. For those with artistic, historic and cultural interests to those seeking adventure, sporting activities and parties, you’ll find something that tickles your fancy in the selection. While some are firmly in the Top Ten of everyone that visits, quite a few are personal favourites I’ve discovered only since living here, and I’ve experienced them all in the last 12 months with visiting family and friends.

While Simon Cowell et al might like to sunbathe on over-sized day beds in the hushed luxury of an exclusive beach club, those with young teenagers in tow would probably opt for a day at a fast and furious water park. Thankfully, the scope of things to do is enormous. But that scope means you need to know where to head.

I’ve selected a range of the best attractions and beaches in each area of the Costa del Sol that showcase that variety. For those with artistic, historic and cultural interests to those seeking adventure, sporting activities and parties, you’ll find something that tickles your fancy in the selection. While some are firmly in the Top Ten of everyone that visits, quite a few are personal favourites I’ve discovered only since living here, and I’ve experienced them all in the last 12 months with visiting family and friends.